BFAR XI – Enforcement and Regional Monitoring Control and Surveillance Operation Center (ERMCSOC) Land-based Team conducted a Joint Fisheries Mobile Checkpoint Operation in the Municipality of Mawab, Davao de Oro from July 24 to 26, 2024.

The activity aims to deter and eliminate all forms of illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (IUUF) activities in the region.

During the checkpoint in Poblacion, Mawab, in collaboration with the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAGRO), and Municipal Police Station (MPS)-Mawab, a total of four (4) fish carriers were inspected and documented. The monitored commodities included Pirit, Burot, Moro-Moro, Tilapia, and Bangus, originating from Tagum City, Davao del Norte, and bound for Montevista, Monkayo, and Mangagoy.

ERMCSOC reported no illegal aquatic wildlife trade or prohibited fishery items found and none of the fish samples exhibit manifestation of being caught through the use of explosives. Additionally, fish transporters were advised to secure a Local Transport Permit (LTP).

Before this operation, the team paid a visit to various offices in Mawab, including the Municipal Mayor’s Office, Police Provincial Office-Davao de Oro, Provincial Agriculture Office-Davao de Oro, and MPS for a briefing on the operation and distribution of information materials.

BFAR XI emphasized the importance for fish transporters and traders to comply with BFAR regulations by obtaining LTP from the nearest BFAR Office before transporting aquatic and marine products. As part of the standard procedures, the law enforcement team carefully examined the LTP of fish carriers to ensure the traceability of the commodities.